As a young woman, I was nervous to travel around Europe by myself. But as I’ve pushed my boundaries and stopped waiting for other people to join me before traveling somewhere, I’ve found out how fulfilling solo travel can be.

Solo travel is a transformative experience, especially for women seeking independence, growth, and adventure. While traveling alone as a woman can come with unique challenges, it also offers unmatched rewards.

From the freedom to set your own itinerary to the confidence gained by navigating unfamiliar places, solo travel empowers women to connect deeply with themselves and the world around them. On my travels, I found things out about myself that I wouldn’t have ever learned if I hadn’t taken the leap and booked the flights. Solo travel is not only great for seeing amazing places, but also connecting to your mind and asking yourself questions.

Solo travel also gave me the confidence to navigate anything. I am able to figure out public transit in a foreign country, and I can handle when plans fall through and I need to adjust last minute.

Safety is always a priority, and I found that research is the best tool to find places that are well-rated in female safety. Also, thanks to global communities, apps, and resources designed specifically for women on the move, I felt as though I was perfectly safe in my areas. Still, it is important to use caution and be aware at all times, no matter where you are at.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to book that solo trip, or if you’re studying abroad and want to visit countries but don’t have people to go with, this is it. The world is a wide and amazing place, and you are more than capable of exploring it on your own terms.